The Athletic FC Podcast

Why are Chelsea signing players already?

<p>The summer transfer window doesn’t open until mid-June, yet Chelsea are not waiting around, having already agreed deals for Dario Essugo, and Geovany Quenda. </p><br><p>So why are Chelsea doing their business so early, and should other clubs be following suit? </p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Simon Johnson, Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><br><p>We want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why is Trent set to leave Liverpool for nothing?

<p>One of football’s worst kept secrets could soon be resolved as Real Madrid look to close a deal to sign Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.</p><br><p>So how did it get to this, the Reds losing a homegrown asset in the prime of his career on a free transfer and where will he fit at the Bernabeu?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein, Liverpool correspondent James Pearce and Phil Hay to delve into the detail around the increased activity regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future.</p><br><p>Plus, the panel are joined by Real Madrid writer Guillermo Rai to discuss the possibility of a move to the Bernabeu including the use of the media in persuading players to head to the Spanish capital.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein, James Pearce, Phil Hay and Guillermo Rai</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is multi-club ownership here to stay?

<p>This is the third and final part of our multi-club ownership series. </p><br><p>We’ve learned how multi-club operations work and provided some practical examples from the world of football.</p><br><p>Today - we answer your questions on the effectiveness and future of MCOs.</p><br><p>So, can we say for certain multi-club ownership is here to stay?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater </p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><br><p>We want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to <a href="https://www.honesty-box.com/flowlive.html?folder=athletic-com-25&amp;resp=av&amp;origin=false">theathletic.com/athletic/survey25</a> to fill out a short survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchers</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Inside the world of multi-club ownership

<p>Yesterday we heard part one of our multi-club ownership<strong> </strong>eries, as we learned about how MCOs work - and their purpose.</p><br><p>Today, we get some real-world examples, hearing from inside the operations whose clubs include sides from the Premier League and Major League Soccer.</p><br><p>So what is it like to own and manage multiple clubs in different leagues and sometimes in different sports?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater, Tim Bezbatchenko &amp; Larry Berg</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou &amp; Nick Thomson</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How is multi-club ownership reshaping football?

<p>Whether it’s Manchester City, Chelsea or even Bournemouth more and more Premier League clubs are sitting as part of multi-club ownership portfolios.</p><br><p>But why?</p><br><p>How do multi-club ownership groups work, are they purely about making money, or do they help guarantee success on-the-pitch?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Matt Slater for the first of our three-part series in multi-club ownership including Matt speaking with AJ Swoboda, Managing Director in the Americas for consultancy firm Twenty First Group about the role of MCOs within the global game.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater</p><p>Featuring: AJ Swoboda</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Tuchel's approach win England the World Cup?

<p>Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad selection has raised a few eyebrows, most notably the inclusion of both Jordan Henderson and Kyle Walker. </p><br><p>During media duties this week, the England manager put an emphasis on physicality and pressing, a tactic not commonly associated with international football. He also voiced that he felt England were more afraid to drop out of Euro 2024 than having the hunger and excitement to win it. </p><br><p>So is Tuchel's first squad a step forward or step back, and can his more proactive style of management win England the World Cup? </p><br><p>Host: Matt Davies-Adams</p><p>With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Mark Clattenburg on refereeing conspiracies

<p>From the evolution of the profession to the impact of VAR, the pressures officials face has never been greater.</p><br><p>Today we’re joined by a man who’s refereed at the highest level of European football - both in the club and international game.</p><br><p>With fan-fueled conspiracies on the rise and scrutiny at an all-time high, how difficult is it to be a referee?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by former Premier League and FIFA referee Mark Clattenburg as well as The Athletic's senior writer Rory Smith to discuss Mark's career, his time at Nottingham Forest as well as the impact conspiracy has on officiating.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Mark Clattenburg and Rory Smith</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Raphinha the Ballon d’Or favourite?

<p>Raphinha is having an incredible season for Barcelona.</p><br><p>After being pushed towards the Nou Camp exit door in the summer the Brazilian has grown into one of Hansi Flick’s most important players.</p><br><p>So how has Raphinha reinvented himself to become one of Europe’s most effective players? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Phil Hay, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero &amp; Laia Cervello Herrero</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou &amp; Nick Thomson</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Are Liverpool running out of steam?

<p>It’s been a disappointing week for Liverpool.</p><br><p>Just days after their Champions League exit at the hands of PSG, came a<strong><em> </em></strong>hammer blow at Wembley.</p><br><p>After an abject display in the League Cup final defeat to Newcastle, we’re asking if Liverpool have run out of steam.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Simon Hughes, Andy Jones &amp; Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Newcastle's trophy drought is over - what next?

<p>After 70 years of waiting, Newcastle United finally have their hands on domestic silverware after beating Liverpool 2-1 in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.</p><p>So how did Eddie Howe’s side make such light work of Liverpool?</p><p>And will success at Wembley kick start a new era of success on Tyneside?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead, who were both at Wembley, to discuss the significance of the occasion, and the role of a number of Newcastle's individual players. Later, they ask whether League Cup success can provide the launchpad to greater riches.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Chris Waugh, Jacob Whitehead and Mark Carey</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Preview - Liverpool vs Newcastle

<p>The first piece of domestic silverware will be contested between Liverpool and Newcastle when they meet in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.</p><p>Eddie Howe's Newcastle are looking to end a 70 year drought, will the occasion get the better of them as it did in 2023?</p><p>And after being dumped out of the Champions League by PSG midweek, how will Arne Slot's side respond in his first final at Liverpool?</p><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's football writer Tim Spiers, Newcastle writer Chris Waugh and Liverpool writer Andy Jones to preview Sunday's tie.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Chris Waugh, Andy Jones</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Are Atletico Madrid cursed?

<p>On Wednesday night Atletico Madrid found a new way to suffer Champions League heartbreak at the hands of Real Madrid.</p><p>Diego Simeone's side were knocked out courtesy of penalties after Julian Alvarez had his effort rule out for a 'two-touch' kick.</p><p>From VAR, to penalty shootouts, to near misses, Atleti have once again failed to find a way past their neighbours.</p><p>So why is there always something stopping Simeone’s and his team from getting over the line in this competition? </p><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Phil Hay to reflect on a chaotic night at the Metropolitano, discuss Atleti's 'El Pupas' curse and analyse how Simeone lifts his side for the La Liga title run-in.</p><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Phil Hay and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How will Man United pay for their new stadium?

<p>On Tuesday, Manchester United announced that they intend to build a 100,000-capacity new stadium rather than redevelop their existing Old Trafford home.</p><p>The news came shortly after Sir Jim Ratcliffe stated the club could run out of money by Christmas without cost-cutting.</p><p>So, with concerns around Manchester United’s finances, how would this development be paid for, and how will it affect their on pitch ambitions?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater and Mark Critchley</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who is Nottingham Forest’s best player?

<p>It’s clear that Nottingham Forest are the real deal this season..</p><p>So can they hold on and qualify for the Champions League next season?</p><p>And is their success down to the system or their raft of standout players?</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Paul Taylor, Nick Miller, Ahmed Walid</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke &amp; Nick Thomson</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why Europe is vital to Man United's squad overhaul

<p>Not for the first time Manchester United have proven they still have glimpses of class in the team - as shown by Bruno Fernandes in their 1-1 draw with Arsenal.</p><p>Despite sitting 14th in the Premier League, the Europa League still offers a backdoor into next season’s Champions League.</p><p>So how crucial is European qualification to Ruben Amorim’s plans for an Old Trafford overhaul?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writer Laurie Whitwell and Phil Hay to discuss the Ruben Amorim 'project' at Old Trafford to date while Mark Critchley also drops in to explain the financial need to secure European qualification to help finance a summer overhaul of the playing squad.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Laurie Whitwell, Phil Hay and Mark Critchley</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Underground World of Fake Football Shirts

<p>Online searches for fake football shirts have gone up by over 500% since 2021, with the Premier league counterfeit market worth over £180m.</p><p>But what damage could they be causing you and others?</p><p>Adam Leventhal has spent the last nine months investigating the illicit trade of counterfeits, and uncovered some shocking details along the way.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>Mixing: Jay Beale</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Featuring footage from: Sky News, Arsenal, Manchester United, Aston Villa, sdpeasyy, Culture Force</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Preview - Man United vs Arsenal

<p>Arsenal face Manchester United on Sunday, looking to win consecutive away games at Old Trafford for the first time since 1979. </p><p>This week, Mikel Arteta’s side thumped PSV 7-1 in the Champions League, meaning there will be no distractions as they look to build on an impressive attacking display. </p><p>After a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad, Ruben Amorim will not be afforded that luxury. Manchester United’s hopes of silverware and Champions League qualification rest on their Europa League campaign, will the United boss have one eye on Thursday’s second leg? </p><p>Arsenal writer Art de Roché and Manchester writer Mark Critchley join Adam Leventhal to preview Sunday’s tie. </p><p>Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the big fixtures elsewhere.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Art de Roché, Mark Critchley</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Newcastle keep hold of Isak?

<p>Alexander Isak is one of Europe’s most prolific strikers having scored 17 goals in his last 17 games since the start of December.</p><p>The Swede has helped fire Newcastle United to Wembley and has also put them in the mix for Champions League qualification.</p><p>But the question is can they deliver the success needed to keep him at St James’ Park?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead to explore what it is that makes Isak the player he is as well as the cult hero he's become on Tyneside before exploring how difficult, or not, it may be to keep hold of him this summer.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Wirtz, Odegaard, Fernandes: What makes a talisman?

<p>There’s a new wonderkid on the block, and his name is Florian Wirtz. </p><br><p>He has established himself as the man to carry the creative responsibility for Bayer Leverkusen.</p><br><p>But how does he measure up against the world’s best in his position?  </p><br><p>And is there a danger in becoming over-reliant on one player to make things happen?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Phil Hay &amp; Mark Carey</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Has Mourinho added to Turkish football's chaos?

<p>No matter where he’s managing, Jose Mourinho simply cannot stay out of the headlines.</p><br><p>His time managing in the Turkish Super Lig has seen more of the same.</p><br><p>So is this ‘typical Jose’? Or is he a victim of the chaos that surrounds him?</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Rory Smith &amp; Andy Mitten</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou &amp; Nick Thomson</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Arsenal's new sporting director: Who is in the frame?

<p>Last week, David Ornstein reported that Arsenal are looking to conclude their search for a new Sporting Director by the end of March.</p><p>So, with the search set to conclude this month, who is the ideal candidate for the role and could this appointment be the missing link to help Arsenal finally end their wait for a Premier League title?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to analyse what the Gunners are looking for and who could be the man to replace Edu in trying to help Mikel Arteta bring silverware to the Emirates Stadium.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who needs European football the most?

<p>With just six points separating Nottingham Forest in 3rd and Aston Villa in 10th, European football is up for grabs in the Premier League.</p><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's football writers Tim Spiers and Nick Miller to discuss which side needs European qualification the most.</p><p>After wins midweek, Manchester City and Chelsea sit 4th and 5th respectively, are any of the chasing pack consistent enough to earn Champions League football?</p><p>With Manchester United and Tottenham languishing in the bottom half of the table, which clubs are eyeing up the Europa and Conference League?</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller</p><p>Featuring: Paul Taylor, Sam Lee, Liam Twomey, Chris Waugh, Jacob Tanswell</p><p>Editor: Nick Thomson</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How big does Man City's rebuild need to be?

<p>After a week in which they were dumped out of the Champions League and given a dose of reality by Liverpool, Man City got back to winning ways, beating Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 courtesy of Erling Haaland on his return from injury.</p><p>So, with Haaland back from injury and their new recruits bedding in is the City rebuild not as big a job as we thought it might be?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City correspondent Sam Lee as well as Jack Pitt-Brooke to analyse City's performance at the Tottenham Hotspur season before assessing the state of their squad rebuild.</p><p>New signings Abdukodir Khusanov, Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez are all discussed as well as the ageing spine of Guardiola's dynastic team before questioning whether the Spaniard can return City to their previous standards?</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Sam Lee and Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Rashford & Asensio: Will Villa's gamble pay off?

<p>Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio couldn’t save Aston Villa last night as they lost 4-1 away at Crystal Palace.</p><br><p>The two marquee signings were brought in to boost Unai Emery’s side at the business end of the season.</p><br><p>But are Rashford &amp; Asensio the solution to Villa’s problems right now? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jacob Tanswell &amp; Rory Smith </p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Premier League promotion still the promised land?

<p>Last season marked the first time since 1998 that all three promoted Premier League teams were relegated.</p><br><p>It looks like history may repeat itself this season, after another miserable weekend for Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton.</p><br><p>So will all three go down? </p><br><p>And if so, what does it say about the gap between the Premier League and the Championship?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Stu James &amp; Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou &amp; Nick Thomson</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Salah set for the best Premier League season ever?

<p>Liverpool have moved 11 points clear in the Premier League title race with Mohamed Salah leading the way in their 2-0 win over Manchester City.</p><p>His goal and assists are edging him towards records set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.</p><p>Mohamed Salah is one of the Premier League’s Greatest but could he be THE greatest?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay, who was at the Etihad on Sunday for The Athletic as well as Simon Hughes, author of Chasing Salah: The Biography of Mohamed Salah.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay and Simon Hughes</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How data and AI is shaping football

<p>Ever thought about how elite football clubs actually go about using data to analyse and recruit players?</p><br><p>Well, The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast has the answers you need.</p><br><p>Paul Power from sports data company, Skillcorner, joins the show to chat about how clubs really use data in recruitment and analysis.</p><br><p>Plus… what the future could hold in terms of football’s relationship with AI?</p><br><p>Host: Michael Bailey</p><p>With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Paul Power</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Preview - Man City vs Liverpool

<p>Manchester City host Liverpool on Sunday in what could be a decisive game in this season’s title race. </p><p>Pep Guardiola will be hoping to fix Manchester City’s out of possession problems, that contributed to them being dumped out of the Champions League midweek. </p><p>After consecutive draws away from home in the Premier League, can Arne Slot’s side make a statement at a ground they have won just once at in their previous 15 attempts? </p><p>The Athletic’s senior data analyst Mark Carey and data writer Thom Harris join Matt Davies-Adams to preview Sunday’s clash. </p><p>Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the big fixtures elsewhere. </p><br><p>Host: Matt Davies-Adams</p><p>With: Mark Carey, Thom Harris</p><p>Featuring: James Pearce, Sam Lee</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Mbappe reach Ronaldo's levels at Real Madrid?

<p>On a night Man City had no margin for error, Kylian Mbappe took away any hope scoring his first hat-trick at the Bernabeu for Real Madrid.</p><p>With his treble, the Frenchman became just the fourth player to score a Champions League knockout hat-trick for Madrid following in the footsteps of the likes of Ronaldo Nazario, Karim Benzema and of course Cristiano Ronaldo.</p><p>So can Mbappe reach Cristano Ronaldo's levels at Real Madrid?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Real Madrid writer Guillermo Rai and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to analyse the win over Man City and how fair Carlo Ancelotti's side can go in this season's Champions League.</p><p>Plus, French football writer Tom Williams drops by to discuss Mbappe's evolution and his use of speed through his career.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Guillermo Rai, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Tom Williams</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Amorim's Man United: growing pains or a deeper crisis?

<p>Defeat at Spurs last weekend left Manchester United in 15th place in the table </p><br><p>Next up they take on a resurgent Everton managed by the first person challenged with bringing back the good times at Old Trafford.</p><br><p>So from David Moyes to Ruben Amorim, United seems to be stuck in a cycle of underperformance. </p><br><p>So what is preventing them from moving forward?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Adam Crafton, Oli Kay, Carl Anka &amp; Charlotte Harpur</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou </p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>